This pulled beef sandwich is a warm hug in bread! With tender, shredded beef smothered in tangy sauce, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
I love piling on extra toppings like pickles and onions. It makes each bite even more tasty! Plus, it’s super fun to eat—who doesn’t love a good sandwich?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is fantastic for slow cooking since it becomes tender and flavorful. If you can’t find it, brisket or round roast can work well too, but they may cook slightly differently.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand for the best flavor. If you’re avoiding sugar, check for sugar-free options, or make your own using tomato paste, vinegar, and spices. I love a smoky barbecue sauce for added depth.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic are essential for this dish, bringing a rich base flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with dried onion flakes and garlic powder, but fresh is always better for taste.
Burger Buns: Brioche buns add a nice touch of sweetness. If you prefer healthier options, whole wheat or grain buns can be great substitutes. Pretzel buns are also a fun choice for added flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Beef Is Tender and Shredded Perfectly?
The key to tender pulled beef lies in the cooking method. Slow cooking for 8-10 hours is ideal, which allows the collagen in the beef to break down, resulting in a buttery texture.
- Make sure to sear the beef before slow cooking—it locks in flavor.
- Use enough liquid, like broth and barbecue sauce, to keep the meat moist.
- Allow it to rest after cooking; this helps redistribute the juices.
Shred the beef using two forks—pull apart against the grain for best results. Remember, if it’s still tough, it might need a bit more time in the slow cooker!
How to Make Pulled Beef Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Beef:
- 2 to 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling the Sandwiches:
- 4 to 6 burger buns (preferably brioche or pretzel buns)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: pickles or coleslaw for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and then a slow cooker session of around 8 to 10 hours. After cooking, you’ll need about 5 more minutes to assemble the sandwiches. Perfect for a day at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a large bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the beef chuck roast until it’s well coated. This will add a lot of flavor!
2. Sear the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef roast and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned—about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This step adds great texture and flavor. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
In the slow cooker, place the sliced onion and minced garlic. Pour in the beef broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Add the Beef:
Carefully add the seared beef roast to the slow cooker, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. The slow cooker will do the rest of the work!
5. Slow Cook the Beef:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the beef is tender enough to shred easily with a fork. It’s worth the wait!
6. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces.
7. Mix with Sauce:
Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce so each piece is nicely coated. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Assemble the Sandwiches:
To put together your sandwiches, place a generous portion of the pulled beef on the bottom half of each bun. Top it off with shredded cheddar cheese for that melty goodness.
9. Broil for Cheese Meltdown:
Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Add optional toppings like pickles or coleslaw on top, then place the other half of the bun on top. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious pulled beef sandwiches!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can use brisket or shoulder instead. Just make sure the cut has some fat marbling for that juicy flavor! Adjust cooking times slightly if you choose a leaner cut.
How to Store Leftover Pulled Beef?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems a bit dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate it (unplugged, of course) until you’re ready to cook. Just allow a bit of extra cooking time if the ingredients are cold when you start the slow cooker.
What Types of Buns Work Best?
Brioche or pretzel buns are great choices for their soft texture and taste. However, you can also use whole wheat or gluten-free buns if you prefer. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold the pulled beef and toppings without falling apart!
